Hurricanes are prevalent in South Florida, claiming lives and destroying properties, leading to extensive costs for taxpayers. Devastating events can and have caused millions in damages, leading manufacturers to implement materials capable of tolerating these harsh weather conditions.
Despite safety precautions made available by prominent window companies like Paradise Exteriors, many homeowners fall short of adequately protecting their properties.
For some, common misperceptions created from conflicting and confusing information cause hesitance when considering the switch to windows with high-impact glass.
The way to dispel myths is to reach out to credible resources such as window experts who are willing and able to address questions and concerns for educated decision-making.
Let’s review a few common misperceptions and myths circulating online and present the facts.
The Performance of Impact Windows
As natural disasters continue to strike with increasing devastation, more window companies are using materials to withstand these disasters.
Homeowners take strides to protect their homes when alerted to harsh weather conditions, but many are unfamiliar with the best way to do that. High-impact glass is designed to tolerate hurricane abuses such as strong wind forces and flying debris, critical in preventing substantial damages.
Unlike traditional glass panes, impact glass doesn’t easily break into large sharp shards when struck by high-speed flying debris. The material is resilient due to the application of a specialized laminate coating.
High-quality windows can withstand winds as great as 250 miles per hour, helping to minimize property damage when destructive storms hit.
In addition to these advantages, impact glass further helps to block UV rays, minimizes outdoor noise, and helps maintain an efficient home. Visit Impact-resistant windows: A guide – for what you should know about impact-resistant glass.
Common Myths Surrounding Impact Windows
Homeowners in South Florida take strides to protect their homes against hurricane damage as these devastating events become more prevalent.
Many question the strength of their window glass when facing another disaster; however, they have misperceptions that prevent them from taking precautions by strengthening this component of their household. Several myths or rumors circulate online, leaving homeowners conflicted and confused.
Some lead people to believe that plywood acts as an invincible shield against heavy wind forces, and others advise using duct tape to prevent shattering glass. Unfortunately, following these directions could put you at risk when they prove fallible.
The only way to separate fact from fiction is to reach out to a reputable and reliable window company that will educate and inform you about the protection offered by impact windows, how they perform, and the reasons for considering the investment. Go here for a guide on hurricane-grade window options.
Standard glass is as capable
A common misperception is that traditional panes are as resilient as impact-resistant glass against harsh weather conditions. In fact, impact-rated windows are designed to withstand extreme winds that produce high-speed flying debris without shattering into large, sharp shards.
These windows are far superior to a standard window in protecting a home against substantial damage from hurricanes and other natural disasters. Homeowners can further protect their houses by adding shutters for an added layer of security.
Taping a window will secure it
A suggested way to safeguard traditional windows is by taping the glass in an X-pattern. In fact, taking this measure gives homeowners only a false sense of security as taping has little effect on strong-force winds or flying debris.
The glass will still shatter into sharp pieces that can endanger residents as they fly throughout the house. The best way to protect against shards invading your space is to invest in specially coated hurricane-grade windows that boast the strength to tolerate the impact of flying debris.
Hurricane-grade windows are unattractive
People have the misperception that impact-resistant windows and doors take away from the home’s visual appeal, that they’re designed for function and not style or attractiveness.
In fact, manufacturing technologies continue to advance, with homeowners choosing among a vast array of designs to complement their home’s aesthetic. Whether the house has traditional architecture or a more sleep modern style, you’ll find windows that enhance the design.
Manufacturers understand that windows have varied purposes aside from protecting the property; they can either add to the appearance or detract from it. The objective is to make products prioritize both aspects.
The investment is substantial
Many homeowners are hesitant to shop for high-impact glass windows because of a belief that the cost is considerable. The initial investment is indeed higher than traditional windows, but they also offer incredible benefits over that of standard glass panes.
While you might have a higher upfront cost, you can save money by reducing insurance premiums since carriers will lower rates when you make your home more efficient.
Plus, the increased insulation allows a more comfortable home without consuming excessive energy, saving on utility costs. Installing high-value windows can further increase property value as they’re an attractive selling point for prospective homebuyers.
When comparing standard products against high-impact glass, the latter is a cost-efficient option compared to the traditional choice, a wise investment when you want to conserve energy and secure your household.
Impact-resistant glass is only beneficial in a storm
In fact, the security offered by impact-resistant glass extends beyond storms and safeguards a house against intruders attempting to break into the house. They add extra insulation, meaning homeowners are warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer without excessive heating and cooling system use.
The added insulation further helps to protect against outside noise, which is helpful when you live on a high-traffic street or in a crowded neighborhood. You will also have protection with some blocking harmful UV rays, which can prevent discolored or faded furnishings and floor coverings.
Final Thought
Homeowners living in a hurricane-prone location benefit from installing high-impact glass windows capable of withstanding abuses from harsh weather conditions. The upfront investment is higher than that of installing new traditional glass windows, but these are superior in numerous ways.
In addition to protecting the house from shattering glass from strong force winds and high-speed flying debris, they offer security against break-ins and insulation to help conserve energy and ensure peace away from the noisy outdoors.
While manufacturers focus on function, they also present vast styles and designs to complement the house aesthetic, making high-impact glass windows practical and appealing, a wise investment in home improvement.
